Wesley Taylor and Ben Ahlers Lead Satirical Short “Movin’ On Up”

“Movin’ On Up” is a workplace-satire short that follows a directionless white-collar employee who is suddenly thrust up the corporate ladder. The protagonist finds himself in a surreal “MGM Musical meets Silicon Valley” environment where employees dance through the halls and the company’s true purpose remains opaque. The film uses the absurdity of the setting to comment on contemporary career anxiety.

Variety Magazine

The short stars Ben Ahlers and Wesley Taylor—known for roles in *The Gilded Age* and *Only Murders In The Building* respectively. Supporting actors include Ainsley Seiger (*Law and Order: Organized Crime*), David Mattar Merten (*Enemy of the People*), and Denise Lute (*The Path*). Jacob Wahba makes his feature-film directorial debut after a career in editorial campaigns, New York theatrical productions, and television. The writing team is led by Patrick Daly, with production overseen by Max Johnson, Chloé Ryan, and Wahba himself. Executive producers are Frankie Seratch and David Treatman; co-producers are Maria Noto and Daly; associate producers are Katherine McGuire and Joseph Hayes. Pierre Marais edited the piece, while Jason Velez served as director of photography. Costume design was handled by Kala La Fortune Reed, production design by Lucas Degirolamo, and choreography by Matthew Steffens. Music supervision was provided by Zachary Schur, with original compositions by Natalia Karaseva and Christian McGhee.

Variety Magazine

The short’s aesthetic deliberately echoes the intricate choreography and vibrant set pieces of 1950s MGM musicals such as *Singin’ in the Rain*, as well as the stylized work of Vincente Minnelli and Busby Berkeley. This retro-musical influence is woven into a modern corporate setting, creating a contrast that underscores the film’s satirical tone.

Variety Magazine

“Movin’ On Up” was produced by a team that includes Max Johnson, Chloé Ryan, and Jacob Wahba, with executive oversight from Frankie Seratch and David Treatman. Co-production responsibilities were shared by Maria Noto and Patrick Daly, while Katherine McGuire and Joseph Hayes acted as associate producers. The film’s technical crew features veteran gaffer Jason Velez, editor Pierre Marais, and cinematographer Jason Velez.

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Jacob Wahba described the short as capturing a uniquely 2020s feeling of uncertainty and urgency, noting that many people sense a pressure to act quickly or risk being left behind. Writer Patrick Daly echoed this sentiment, saying the film translates that unsettling anxiety into humor, reflecting a widespread cultural mood.

Variety Magazine